12923, Churubusco, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 12923, Churubusco, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12923

This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near ZIP code 12923, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis considers data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available reports. While no single "Overall Health Score" can perfectly capture the complexities of healthcare, this review provides a comprehensive overview to inform residents seeking quality medical care.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The immediate vicinity of 12923, which encompasses portions of the Adirondack region, presents a unique healthcare challenge due to its rural nature and dispersed population. While major metropolitan hospitals are distant, several key players serve the area, including Adirondack Medical Center (AMC) in Saranac Lake and Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh. These facilities are critical access points for emergency care and offer a range of services.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake):**

AMC, part of the Adirondack Health system, is a vital community hospital. It provides a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, inpatient medical and surgical care, and a range of outpatient clinics. AMC’s CMS star rating is not publicly available. However, its commitment to rural healthcare is evident in its provision of essential services within a geographically challenging area. ER wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume, but the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. AMC's telehealth capabilities are expanding, connecting patients with specialists and offering remote monitoring options to improve access to care for those in remote locations. Specific telehealth statistics are not publicly available.

**Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (Plattsburgh):**

CVPH, a larger facility located in Plattsburgh, offers a more extensive array of specialized services than AMC. CVPH is affiliated with the University of Vermont Health Network. CVPH’s CMS star rating is not publicly available. CVPH's ER wait times are generally longer than AMC's, reflecting its higher patient volume and the broader range of conditions it treats. CVPH's telehealth program is robust, with offerings for various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specific telehealth usage statistics are not publicly available.

**Specialty Care and Centers of Excellence:**

The region's hospitals offer a variety of specialty services, although access to highly specialized care may require travel to larger facilities outside the immediate area.

* **Cardiology:** Both AMC and CVPH offer cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and treatment for common heart conditions. For more complex cardiac procedures, patients may be referred to larger hospitals in Burlington, Vermont, or Albany, New York.
* **Oncology:** CVPH has a comprehensive cancer center that provides radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other cancer treatments. AMC offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and supportive care.
* **Orthopedics:** Both hospitals offer orthopedic services, including surgery and rehabilitation. CVPH has a more extensive orthopedic program with a wider range of surgical options.
* **Behavioral Health:** Access to behavioral health services is a critical need in rural areas. Both AMC and CVPH provide behavioral health services, including inpatient and outpatient care. However, wait times for appointments can be significant.
* **Women's Health:** Both hospitals offer obstetrics and gynecology services, including prenatal care, delivery services, and gynecological procedures.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Both AMC and CVPH strive to minimize wait times, but factors such as patient volume, severity of illness, and staffing levels can influence wait times. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours or periods of high patient demand. CMS data on ER wait times is not readily available for these specific hospitals.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in rural healthcare, providing access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities. Both AMC and CVPH have invested in telehealth programs to improve patient access and convenience. Telehealth options include virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and remote therapy sessions. The specific availability of telehealth services varies depending on the specialty and the patient's needs.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Geographic isolation and limited transportation options pose challenges to accessing healthcare in the 12923 area. Residents may need to travel significant distances to reach hospitals and specialty clinics. Public transportation options are limited. The availability of ambulance services is crucial for emergency situations, but response times can be affected by distance and road conditions.

**Quality of Care and Patient Safety:**

Hospital quality is assessed through various metrics, including patient safety indicators, infection rates, and patient satisfaction scores. Both AMC and CVPH are committed to providing high-quality care and patient safety. However, specific data on these metrics is not always publicly available. Patients are encouraged to research hospital performance data and read patient reviews to inform their healthcare decisions.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage:**

The cost of healthcare can be a significant concern for residents. The cost of services varies depending on the type of care, the hospital, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand their out-of-pocket expenses before receiving care. Financial assistance programs are available for eligible patients.

**Community Health Needs:**

The healthcare needs of the 12923 community are shaped by its demographics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Common health concerns include chronic diseases, mental health issues, and substance use disorders. Addressing these needs requires a collaborative approach involving hospitals, healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies.

**Future Outlook:**

The healthcare landscape in the 12923 area is constantly evolving. The hospitals are continually working to improve their services, expand their telehealth capabilities, and address the unique challenges of rural healthcare. The development of new technologies and innovative care models is expected to further enhance patient access and improve health outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

Residents near ZIP code 12923 have access to essential healthcare services through AMC and CVPH. While the area faces challenges related to rural geography and transportation, the hospitals are committed to providing quality care and expanding access through telehealth and other initiatives. Patients should research their options, understand their insurance coverage, and actively participate in their healthcare decisions. While this review provides a comprehensive overview, it is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns.